BAE Systems and Airbus are joining forces to revolutionise sustainable aviation through an innovative energy storage system for Airbus’ micro-hybridisation demonstration project. This partnership aims to mature and integrate electrification technologies that enhance energy efficiency and reduce aviation’s carbon footprint, marking a significant step toward sustainable commercial air travel.
Energy Storage System: Powering the Future of Flight
Under the agreement, BAE Systems will develop, test, and deliver energy storage packs designed for electric aircraft in the megawatt power class. The system offers a two-hundred-kilowatt-hour energy capacity, providing an electric propulsion assist to engines during critical phases of flight, including takeoff and climb.
These energy storage systems will be supplied to Airbus for laboratory testing and system integration, supporting hybridisation technology demonstrations aimed at showcasing the viability of sustainable aviation solutions.
Advancing Sustainable Aviation
“Our collaboration with Airbus will help future developments in air travel—advancing sustainable aviation with leading-edge energy management solutions,” said Ehtisham Siddiqui, vice president and general manager of Controls and Avionics Solutions at BAE Systems.
With decades of expertise in flight-critical systems and vehicle electrification, BAE Systems is uniquely positioned to meet the complex demands of aerospace electrification. The company’s solutions prioritise safety, performance, and scalability while addressing critical challenges, such as thermal runaway mitigation and energy density optimisation.
Pioneering Electrification and Energy Management
BAE Systems’ energy storage products offer a scalable roadmap to 300 Wh/kg energy density, leveraging standard format cells for cost-effectiveness. The company’s commitment to innovation ensures that its energy storage systems can evolve with advancing battery technologies, providing next-generation aircraft with an efficient upgrade path.
With over 25 years of experience in electric power and propulsion systems and more than four decades of expertise in flight-critical control systems, BAE Systems continues to lead in aerospace innovation.
The energy storage systems for this project will be developed at BAE Systems’ cutting-edge engineering and manufacturing facility in Endicott, New York, reflecting the company’s commitment to driving sustainable aviation forward.
SOURCE: BAE SYSTEMS IMAGE CREDIT: AIRBUS
